Is it Safe to Put a Christmas Tree in My Chicken Coop?

Photo Cred: Pinterest

Decorating for Christmas is a family favorite around here, and naturally, with my love for chickens, this festive spirit carries over to the coop! Every year, I add some holiday cheer to our coop, and this year is no exception. Let me show you how I decorated my coop for Christmas!

Adding a Christmas Tree to Your Chicken Coop

After my second year of having chickens, I put a small tree up with some lights. My chickens left it alone because they probably didn’t care, but it sure made me feel festive out in the coop! Haha!

I often get asked, “Annie, do your chickens get a Christmas tree too?” And the answer is yes! But, is it safe to put a Christmas tree in your chicken coop? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind when you're decorating your chicken coop for the holidays.

Tips for Decorating Your Chicken Coop Safely

If you’re planning to add a Christmas tree or other festive decorations to your coop, here are a few safety tips to consider:

• Use a natural tree: Make sure your Christmas tree is real and hasn’t been sprayed with colorants or fire-retardant chemicals.

• Remove any non-edible ornaments: Skip the tinsel and fragile decorations unless you’re using edible ornaments made specifically for chickens and using foods that are safe for chickens!

• Keep it away from heat sources: If you heat your coop, ensure the tree is placed far from any heat source to prevent fire hazards.

  
  

Benefits of Adding a Christmas Tree to Your Coop

Not only does a Christmas tree add a festive touch to your coop, but pine trees actually provide fun cover and foraging opportunities for your chickens. Pine needles contain small amounts of antioxidants, vitamin C and nutrients, making them a healthy snack for your flock! It’s a win-win—your coop looks festive, and your chickens get a tasty treat.

Happy enjoying some fresh air and pine needles in her Christmas scarf.

Repurposing Your Christmas Tree for the Coop

If you use a real tree inside your home, go ahead and put it out in the coop for your chickens to check out after the holidays. They are curious little stinkers, and they love to peck around new things. This eliminates you from having to dispose of the tree. If you have a smaller coop and can’t fit the entire tree in the coop, cut some branches off and let them go to town. It will provide a healthy snack as well as a boredom buster!

Keep the Coop Smelling Fresh This Christmas

Finally, if you want to add another festive touch to your coop this year while also reducing moisture control and unwanted odors, we recommend trying our new Coop Recuperate Orange Spice! This coop refresher is made with organic essential oils and diatomaceous earth, ensuring your coop stays merry and bright all season long.

Until next time,

–The Wing Lady